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Monday, 28 January 2013

Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus vs. Norton (on Windows 7)

Wondering how some of the leading internet security tools perform on
Windows 7? We compared Webroot SecureAnywhere and Norton Antivirus

With the huge variety of existing virus protection programs, it can
be like looking for a needle in a haystack to find the best one. Two of
the biggest contenders right now are Webroot and the ever-reliable
Norton. Both of these services offer various levels of paid service with
different packages and many options. The question is: which of these
two offer better protection?

Feature Comparison: Webroot With Many Additional Tools

Webroot Secure Anywhere has a very beautiful UI and is easy to use.
We are also impressed by the many system tools, backup features and even
privacy and identity protection features
While Norton has long been the reliable choice for anti-virus
software, Webroot may give it a run for its money in terms of features.
Included in Webroot’s main program are protections for PC, tablet and
smart phone, and the ability to wipe sensitive information from these
devices remotely should they be lost or stolen.

Webroot security: The highe-end service package
offers cloud backup storage for up to 25 gigabytes. Webroot also has a
tool that ensures that deleted files are totally unrecoverable.

While Norton does offer these tools as well, they need to be purchased separately.

How Much Do They Cost? Test-Drive Norton

Webroot has no free version,
unlike Norton which offers a free 30 day trial. This may be a deal
breaker for those who feel the need to test drive new software. Norton’s
protection comes in $50, $80, and $90 packages, each with more features
than the last. Extras like online backup and mobile device protection
can cost $20-$30 dollars extra per tool. Repeat customers are eligible
for discounts, up to 15% off the purchase price. Webroot’s packages cost
$40, $60 and $80 packages, but mobile device protection and file backup
are included in the highest bracket product.

Virus Protection Comparison: Popularity A Bad Thing?

Norton’s longstanding position as an anti-virus program leader can
actually result in worse protection. Because of its high profile status,
more hackers are writing programs which specifically target Norton’s
software, making it more vulnerable. Additionally, Webroot comes
packaged with spy ware protection, which Norton lacks. Both suites
perform similarly when compared directly. Norton’s product works quietly
in the background which is nice, but Webroot has better cleanup tools
for already infected software and faster response to new virus
outbreaks.

Ease of Use

Norton’s LiveUpdate makes updating the software hassle-free
Norton’s online store is overwhelming, and finding what you want can
be confusing, despite the constant pop ups offering live assistance.
Webroot’s more streamlined product model, offering three packages with
everything included may be easier to puzzle out than Norton’s “Buy what
you need” approach that confronts consumers with dozens of confusing
products. Webroot’s download and use is highly recommended by consumer
reviews, but Norton’s fast scans and streamlined system that takes up
fewer system resources are a huge selling point for many.
In the end, the two products are pretty close but for most people,
Webroot is probably the best solution of the two. While loyal customers
of Norton may benefit a bit from continuing to purchase their service,
anyone looking for a new anti-virus software program would do well to
decide in favor of Webroot. However, if you’re still uncertain, it
certainly can’t hurt to take Norton up on their free trial offers.